• August
  • Full-Time
  • 1 year
  • Early Education and Childcare
  • HND (SCQF Level 8)

HND CHILDHOOD PRACTICE

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Intro to the course:

The HND Childhood Practice is fully co-ordinated to the Standard for Childhood Practice 2015 and aims to develop professional practice enabling you to demonstrate an understanding of the skills that you will need to lead a team effectively and work collaboratively with others. You will develop an understanding of theoretical concepts and pedagogy in childhood practice. Undertaking this qualification will also enable you to develop a critical understanding of local, national and international policies and legal frameworks which are currently impacting early years practice. You will participate in personal reflection for continuous professional development. This award would allow experienced practitioners to enhance their professional practice beyond their current role. 

This course is delivered on a full time basis which entails 2 days on campus, 2 days in a work placement and one study day.  There will be a blend of on-campus and online sessions throughout the year.   There may be an option for South Lanarkshire College to arrange a work placement for you if you are not currently employed in the sector. This can be discussed at interview.  

 

Qualification
HND (SCQF Level 8)

Study mode
Full-Time

Start date
25/08/2025

Who is the course for?

 The HND is for early years practitioners who have the ambition and drive to become a leader, or those looking to take on a lead role within a childhood practice setting. This qualification has been specifically designed to support the development of practitioners who wish to enhance their professional practice. 

What will I study?

The Higher National Diploma in Childhood Practice at SCQF Level 8 covers areas relevant to developing your professional practice. It builds on the skills of the Higher National Certificate. 

Subjects will include;

  • Enhanced Professional Practice
  • Leadership and Team Working
  • Integrated and Collaborative Working
  • Policy to Practice
  • Pedagogical Approaches

Next step course options

Achieving your HND Childhood Practice allows you to apply directly for Year 3 of Childhood Practice/Childhood Studies degree or PDA Childhood Practice Level 9. 

How will I be assessed?

This course has a variety of assessment methods such as Power Point presentations, essay writing, creating reports, portfolios.  You will work both as an individual and as part of a group. 

Why should I choose this course?

This course will equip you with the essential skills and knowledge to enable you to progress into employment or on to further study. Your lecturing team have a wealth of experience within the ELC sector as well as teaching in college. They will expertly guide and support you through your learning. You will develop your depth of learning in current early years policies, theories and issues which affect children and their families in Scotland today.  Take the next step in advancing your career and becoming the leader that you want to be! 

Where can this course lead?

During this  programme, you will develop your professional knowledge and skills to increase your future career prospects. This award will advance your practice and enhance your professional values and commitment. The qualification is step on the pathway to working towards a lead practitioner and manager’s role in an early years setting. 

What are the entry requirements?

This one year full time course is for learners who have previously studied HNC Childhood Practice and/or SVQ Level 3 Social Services (Children and Young People) and have Practitioner in the Day Care of Children status with SSSC.  

What are the interview arrangements?

Interviews are formal and may be group or individual.  You will be asked to bring a reference, an essay (topic will be given to you), evidence of your qualifications to date and complete a Criminal Convictions Form to ensure that you are eligible to apply for a PVG (Protection of Vulnerable Groups). 

Fees, finance and funding

Fees for full time is £1285

This course is eligible for SAAS.

Please note, fees are subject to change, please double-check this when enrolling in your course

If you are unsuccessful in your SAAS, you may be liable for the full cost of course

For more information please visit the finance pages - Fees, finance and funding options.

Other information:

You may be eligible to apply for SAAS funding for this course. Any deficit in the course fees must be paid to the college by the student. The cost of the course will be available on the college portal and will be discussed at interview. Applicants applying with a relevant SVQ 3 will have a credit deficit which will need to be gained before the HND award can be achieved. Staff will discuss this at interview. Any credit deficit must be paid for by the applicant.


Full time course: 2 days per week in college and 2 days per week in placement

Need more help?

Would you like to speak to someone about your application today? We’d love to hear from you.

You can drop into the Student Advice Centre between 8.45am and 4.30pm, Monday to Friday.

Tel: 01355 270750
Email: admissions@slc.ac.uk

Choose your study options

Study mode Full-Time Start date 25/08/2025 Duration 1 year
Apply now